K&S Wagon Hiking Trail, Kaslo

K&S Wagon Hiking Trail is a historic access road, once traveled by pioneers, eager to cash in on the discovery of silver in and around Kaslo. BC in the late 1800s. The hiking trail, once road, is located in the backcountry wilderness forests near the community of Kaslo in the Kootenay region of British Columbia, Canada. 

The 12 kilometre wagon road is a multi-use trail exploring forests eventually connecting back to the community of Kaslo. The K&S Wagon Road is a wide path. Activities enjoyed on the road include hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking and ATVing in the summer months. During the winter the trail is popular with the cross country skiers and snow shoers.

In 1891, the local miners discovered silver in the region. The news traveled fast attracting more pioneers to the area. Instantly a transportation route through the valley was needed to handle the people moving to the region. That same year the Kaslo Board of Trade began building a new transportation route through some of regions roughest, mountainous terrain.

In 1893 the K&S Wagon Road was completed just in time for the mining boom. Soon the wagons, stage coaches, horseback riders, backpackers and pack trains braved the harsh conditions of the mountains seeking riches in Kaslo. In 1923, the road was handling vehicles. Once the new paved Highway 31a was built the K&S has been on a bit of a hiatus.

In 1993 the community of Kaslo and the Rail to Trail Society restored the route as a recreation trail, bringing the history back to life. Along the route are interpretive signs of the history of the area.

K&S Wagon Road Hiking Trail, Kaslo, British Columbia, Canada